Nothing to Fear from Your Baby’s Fears
Dear Mr. Dad: My 15-month-old baby is suddenly afraid of everything—including a lot of things he wasn’t afraid of just a few weeks ago. He’s scared the bathtub, getting his hair cut, the vacuum cleaner, the dark, and even our dog (the same dog that he actually rode on recently. What’s going on and what... CONTINUE READING→
The Why and How of Starting a Small Business
We, as a society, have seen much advancement in our technology during this information age. The levels of convenience within the various aspects of our daily lives have dramatically increased as innovative solutions continue to solve the world’s problems. So much so that individuals can actually start any type of business by simply using a... CONTINUE READING→
Loving Pale Males
In 1993 a father of sons realizes extreme feminism is an attack on his children. More than 25 years ago, I experienced a turning point in my feelings about gender issues. Starting in the late 1960s I had always been a feminist: I supported female faculty at my college in the early ’70s when they were starting... CONTINUE READING→
Sleeping Arrangements
Dear Mr. Dad: Everyone I ask has a different opinion about whether it’s okay to share a bed with a baby. My biggest concern is safety. What’s the bottom line? A: The short answer to your question is a resounding “It depends.” For years, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommended against bed sharing (sometimes called “the... CONTINUE READING→
Increases in Outpatient Surgeries
Recent research studies in the healthcare industry have shown a changing trend where patients are undergoing more outpatient surgeries than in the past. Some of these studies have not been able to explain the reasons behind this increase, but a big factor is the advancements that have come about in the medical industry. Here are... CONTINUE READING→
Being an Involved Dad–Even from the Road
Dear Mr. Dad: I’m a professional baseball player and during the season, I’m on the road a lot. I love my job, but I hate being away from my kids (ages 6, 9, and 13)—and I know they’re not happy about it either. How can I stay connected to them when I’m away? A: What... CONTINUE READING→
Why Hackers Love Electronic Medical Records and How to Keep Yours Safe
When you think about computer hackers who want to steal your personal information, you probably assume that they’re after stuff like your credit card accounts and Social Security number. While cybercriminals wouldn’t turn down the chance to get a hold of this type of personal data, they’re actually even more interested in your electronic medical... CONTINUE READING→
Joining a Blended Family with Teenagers
Dear Mr. Dad. I’m marrying a woman who has two teenagers from her previous marriage. This is my first marriage and, although I like her kids, I’m a little worried about how I’ll do as a stepfather of teens. Any suggestions? A: About half of all marriages are remarriages for at least one of the partners,... CONTINUE READING→
Fatherhood is Full of Surprises
Dear Mr. Dad: I just found out that my girlfriend is pregnant. I have no idea what to expect. Can you give me a few hints? A: Congratulations—you’re in for a long, wild ride! Becoming a dad involves new responsibilities, new pressures, and new expectations to live up to. For some of us, this little jolt... CONTINUE READING→
We Are Fully the Men Our Grandfathers Were
Upon reading Nellie Bowles great piece “The Dawning of Sperm Awareness” in the New York Times about the conundrum of our dropping sperm counts, I asked myself: “Am I coming across as a disruptor by not being particularly worried that we are headed toward extinction?” I thought it a good opportunity to unpack the beef behind this belief. Sperm... CONTINUE READING→